15 gorgeous centerpieces (on a budget!)

You might be trying to save some money on your wedding — but that doesn't mean it needs to show. These centerpieces are perfect for budget-savvy brides because most of them can be DIY. If you are using a florist, remember you can always request seasonal, fresh flowers (like in these centerpiece ideas) as a way to save, as well.

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By Amy Eisinger

MailTribune.com

By Amy Eisinger

Posted Feb. 16, 2011 at 9:15 AM
Updated Feb 16, 2011 at 10:20 AM

By Amy Eisinger

Posted Feb. 16, 2011 at 9:15 AM
Updated Feb 16, 2011 at 10:20 AM

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You might be trying to save some money on your wedding — but that doesn't mean it needs to show. These centerpieces are perfect for budget-savvy brides because most of them can be DIY. If you are using a florist, remember you can always request seasonal, fresh flowers (like in these centerpiece ideas) as a way to save, as well.

Tall and lovely

Pink gerber daisies paired with long, green ferns make for the perfect DIY arrangement. Tall arrangements can work well, especially if you're trying to fill a large space or a reception hall with high ceilings.

Bright summer colors

What could be cuter at an outdoor summer wedding than a few in-season flowers placed in a large vase? Use an all-white table decor to help the colors on the flowers really stand out.

Lemons and limes

Who says you have to use flowers? Fill a large vase or oval-shaped container with lemons and limes and set them against a darker-colored tablecloth (try a midnight blue or deep purple). Even if you're set on flowers, consider arranging the bartender's garnishes this way — far lovelier than a plastic container with slices.

Garden fresh

Try shopping at flea markets or thrift stores to pick up antique watering cans and then fill them with flowers. You can also try the idea with mismatched vintage vases, antique silver baby cups, or old-fashioned cookie tins, depending on how casual your wedding is.

Contrasting colors

Using different-sized glass jars creates a mix of tall and short arrangements. Add in mismatched flowers to add to the effect for an overall quirky look.

Au naturel

A natural-bark "vase" on an arrangement will blend in with other woodsy details at a wedding. You can purchase the wood vases (don't waste time trying to carve your own) and then stuff them with seasonal flowers.

All about accessories

Who doesn't love a flashy pair of shoes? Why not use fake miniature shoes, small cars or other memorabilia symbolic of the bride and groom to add a whimsical touch to the reception table? Pair it with brightly colored candy, like jelly beans, for a look that's playful and fun.

Shades of autumn

Fall colors normally make us think of decadence, but a minimalist centerpiece can look stylish and inviting when paired with dark-brown or gold table linens.

Candlelit dining

Adding candles to your centerpieces (or around them) is a great way to make them look a little larger than life. Plus, a little candlelight can go a long way in setting a romantic mood at your reception.

Baby's breath bouquet

If you're on a tight budget, look for options that are big on volume and small on price, like baby's breath. You can usually buy it in big bunches and, as long as you stick to simple vases, you won't break the bank.

Overflowing with flowers

We've already talked about using oversized Mason jars with smaller arrangements, but you can achieve a similarly interesting look by filling a smaller vase so it's overflowing with blooms.

Sweet smells of summer

The best part about a centerpiece of gardenia blooms and lemons is that it will smell lovely. Consider using other nonflower items in your centerpieces for added scent — like cinnamon sticks, oranges and sprigs of mint.

Clean and simple

A single, large cluster of flowers, like white hydrangeas, can also make a surprisingly bold statement. As with the baby's breath, go for flowers with volume so you still save on cost.

A centerpiece to keep

Another great way to save money is by skipping the idea of a "flowers in a vase" centerpiece altogether. Instead, visit a local plant nursery and buy an entire small plant and simply cover the pot in some colorful paper or patterned fabric. The best part of this centerpiece is that you'll get to keep the plant for years and watch it grow.

Just rosy

You can't go wrong with roses. If you've got a little extra to spend, simply stuff a vase full of roses in a color of your choice. Choose a contrasting tablecloth and place setting (try navy with pink roses or white with red roses) to get a truly standout look.